Lee Byung Hun, the charismatic and talented South Korean actor, has captivated audiences around the world with his compelling performances and versatile acting skills. With a career spanning over three decades, he has become one of the most respected and internationally recognized actors in the Korean film industry. From intense action thrillers to poignant dramas, Lee Byung Hun has delivered memorable performances in a wide range of roles. Here are 10 must-watch movies featuring this phenomenal actor that showcase his immense talent.
1. "A Bittersweet Life" (2005)
"A Bittersweet Life," directed by Kim Jee-woon, is a stylish and intense action thriller that propelled Lee Byung Hun to international acclaim. Set in the world of organized crime, the film follows the story of Sun-woo (played by Lee Byung Hun), a high-ranking mobster's enforcer known for his unwavering loyalty and impeccable skills.
The movie takes a bittersweet turn when Sun-woo is tasked with surveilling his boss's young mistress, Hee-soo (played by Shin Min-a), while the boss is away. However, as Sun-woo becomes entangled with Hee-soo, his loyalty is tested, and he finds himself caught between his duty to his boss and his growing affection for the woman.
2. "The Good, the Bad, the Weird" (2008)
Directed by Kim Jee-woon, "The Good, the Bad, the Weird" is an exhilarating and genre-bending action film that takes viewers on a wild and unforgettable ride. Set in 1930s Manchuria, this Korean Western-inspired movie weaves together elements of comedy, adventure, and thrilling gunfights to deliver an enthralling cinematic experience.
The film introduces us to three eccentric characters: "The Good" (played by Jung Woo-sung), a bounty hunter with a moral compass; "The Bad" (played by Lee Byung Hun), a ruthless assassin; and "The Weird" (played by Song Kang-ho), a comical and unpredictable thief. Their paths intertwine when they all set their sights on a mysterious treasure map.
3. "I Saw the Devil" (2010)
Directed by Kim Jee-woon, "I Saw the Devil" is a dark and gripping psychological thriller that pushes the boundaries of the genre. With its intense performances, visceral violence, and thought-provoking exploration of vengeance, the film leaves a lasting impact on its viewers.
The story revolves around Kim Soo-hyun (played by Lee Byung Hun), a secret agent whose life is shattered when his fiancée becomes the victim of a sadistic serial killer, played chillingly by Choi Min-sik. Consumed by grief and a desire for revenge, Kim embarks on a relentless pursuit of the killer, engaging in a deadly game of cat and mouse.
4. "Masquerade" (2012)
Directed by Choo Chang-min, "Masquerade" is a historical drama that takes viewers on a captivating journey through power, identity, and sacrifice. With an exceptional dual performance by the talented Lee Byung Hun, this film leaves a profound impact, both emotionally and intellectually.
Set during the Joseon Dynasty, "Masquerade" centers around a king who is forced to go into hiding due to an assassination attempt. In a twist of fate, a lowly clown named Ha-sun (played by Lee Byung Hun) is chosen to stand in as the king to maintain stability and protect the monarchy. Lee's portrayal of both the king and the clown is nothing short of extraordinary, showcasing his incredible range and ability to embody two distinct characters with nuance and authenticity.
5. "Inside Men" (2015)
Directed by Woo Min-ho, "Inside Men" is a gripping and politically charged crime drama that delves deep into the corrupt underbelly of Korean society. With its intricate plot, compelling performances, and timely exploration of power and morality, the film stands as a standout entry in the genre.
Lee Byung Hun delivers a powerhouse performance as An Sang-goo, a former gangster who becomes embroiled in a high-stakes game of political manipulation and corporate corruption. An Sang-goo finds himself caught between powerful figures vying for control, including a ruthless prosecutor (played by Lee Geung-young) and a charismatic lobbyist (played by Baek Yoon-sik). As the layers of deception unravel, Lee Byung Hun showcases his range as an actor, portraying An Sang-goo's transformation from a hardened criminal to a determined force for justice.
6. "The Age of Shadows" (2016)
Directed by Kim Jee-woon, "The Age of Shadows" is an enthralling espionage thriller that takes place during the Japanese colonial era in Korea. With its gripping narrative, stunning visuals, and superb performances, the film offers a captivating glimpse into a tumultuous period of history.
Lee Byung Hun delivers a stellar performance as Kim Woo-jin, a Korean-born Japanese police officer who finds himself torn between loyalty to his homeland and a growing desire to fight for Korean independence. As he infiltrates a resistance group, led by charismatic and determined fighter Jung Chae-san (played by Gong Yoo), Kim becomes embroiled in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
7. "Master" (2016)
Directed by Cho Ui-seok, "Master" is a gripping and thought-provoking crime thriller that delves into the world of corporate fraud and the relentless pursuit of justice. With its intricate plot, stellar performances, and social commentary, the film keeps audiences engaged from start to finish.
Lee Byung Hun delivers a commanding performance as Kim Jae-myung, a charismatic and determined police detective who is on a mission to bring down a notorious Ponzi scheme mastermind, Jang Gun-seok (played by Kim Woo-bin). As the cat-and-mouse game between the detective and the criminal unfolds, Kim Jae-myung must navigate through a web of deception, corruption, and power.
8. "The Fortress" (2017)
Directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, "The Fortress" is a visually stunning and emotionally charged historical drama set during the 17th century Joseon Dynasty in Korea. Based on the novel by Kim Hoon, the film explores themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the resilience of the human spirit.
"The Fortress" recounts a pivotal moment in Korean history when the country faced an invasion by the Qing Dynasty of China. The story revolves around the court of King Injo (played by Park Hae-il) and his loyal subjects, including General Choi Myung-kil (played by Lee Byung Hun) and Minister Kim Sang-heon (played by Kim Yoon-seok). As they take refuge in a remote mountain fortress, the characters must grapple with difficult decisions and the constant threat of an enemy siege.
Lee Byung Hun delivers a commanding and emotionally charged performance as General Choi Myung-kil. He portrays the character's internal conflicts, as he struggles to balance his loyalty to the king with his responsibility to protect his people. Lee's portrayal captures the nuances of a man torn between duty and personal convictions, elevating the film with his powerful presence.
9. "Ashfall" (2019)
Directed by Kim Byung-seo and Lee Hae-jun, "Ashfall" is an explosive and exhilarating disaster film that combines high-stakes action with a thrilling narrative. With its all-star cast, intense set pieces, and heart-pounding suspense, the film keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.
"Ashfall" takes place in the midst of a catastrophic volcanic eruption that threatens to decimate the Korean Peninsula. The story follows a team of experts, including a government agent (played by Lee Byung Hun), a renowned geologist (played by Ma Dong-seok), and a group of brave soldiers, as they race against time to prevent an even greater catastrophe.
Lee Byung Hun delivers a captivating performance as the determined and resourceful government agent, tasked with ensuring the success of the dangerous mission. His portrayal captures the character's resilience and unwavering commitment to saving lives, adding depth to the film and elevating the tension in every scene.
10. "The Man Standing Next" (2020)
Directed by Woo Min-ho, "The Man Standing Next" is a gripping political thriller that offers a fictionalized account of a significant moment in South Korean history. With its tense atmosphere, stellar performances, and insightful examination of power dynamics, the film captivates audiences from start to finish.
"The Man Standing Next" is set in the 1970s, during the presidency of Park Chung-hee, and centers around the tense relationship between Park (played by Lee Byung Hun) and his trusted intelligence chief, Kim Gyu-pyeong (played by Lee Sung-min). As the president's grip on power becomes increasingly authoritarian, Kim finds himself caught in a web of political intrigue and moral dilemmas.
Lee Byung Hun delivers a remarkable performance as Park Chung-hee, portraying the complex and enigmatic leader with a commanding presence. He captures Park's charisma and ruthlessness, effectively conveying the weight of his authority. Byung Hun's nuanced portrayal showcases the internal struggles of a man torn between his loyalty to his country and his questionable methods of maintaining control.
These ten films represent just a glimpse of Lee Byung Hun's remarkable body of work. Whether he's playing a conflicted anti-hero or a dedicated hero, Lee's ability to bring depth and authenticity to his characters is truly commendable. As a versatile actor with a magnetic presence, he continues to push boundaries and captivate audiences with his exceptional performances. If you're a fan of Korean cinema or simply appreciate great acting, these ten must-watch Lee Byung Hun movies are guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.